HOME INSPECTION
A home inspection is a limited, non-invasive examination of the condition of a home, often in connection with the sale of that home. Home inspections are usually conducted by a home inspector who has the training and certifications to perform such inspections. The inspector prepares and delivers to the client a written report of findings. The client then uses the knowledge gained to make informed decisions about their pending real estate purchase. The home inspector describes the condition of the home at the time of inspection but does not guarantee future condition, efficiency, or life expectancy of systems or components.
COMMERCIAL INSPECTION
A commercial property inspection ( a.k.a Porperty Condition Inspection or PCI by the standars set forth by INTERNACHI) is a walkthrouhg survey, document review and interviews to determine the condition of the property. This assesment is to help the buyers in determining the current conditions, operations and possible maintenance required in the future of the property they are buying.
The scope for which the inspection is provided is determine alongside the buyer to meet the needs of their future business. Several factors are also considered in determining the need of the inspection, such as age, occupancy and future usage. Inspections can range from a visual examination of the property, to a comprehensive inspection of all the building’s technical components with the assistance of field or subject matter experts for the component areas. We utilize the team approach in creating a thorough inspection of all components.
TERMITE INSPECTION (WDO)
A termite inspection is a visual inspection of the readily accessible areas of a home for evidence of wood-destroying insects. The inspector will visually inspect the entire interior of a home (including accessing and entering any sub-space such as attics and crawlspaces) and exterior of the property. (*Termite inspections are conducted by Adames Pest Solutions)
WIND MITIGATION
A windstorm inspection, also referred to as a windstorm mitigation inspection, windstorm insurance inspection or wind mitigation inspection, is a kind of home inspection common in the coastal areas of the Southeastern United States. The purpose of a windstorm inspection is to determine the appropriateness of a given structure’s construction in the event of strong winds, such as those present in a hurricane.
Windstorm inspections look for construction features that have been shown to reduce losses in hurricanes, such as a hip roof, concrete block construction, the presence of gable end bracing, shutters and opening protections, the presence of roof to wall attachments such as toe nails, clips or hurricane straps, and the presence of a secondary water resistance barrier.
A homeowner with windstorm insurance can often submit the results of a windstorm inspection to their insurer to obtain discounts on their windstorm insurance. In Florida, for example, premium discounts for certain favorable wind mitigation features are mandated by State law and can total 45% of the original policy’s premium. In coastal parts of Texas, the State mandates windstorm inspections prior to certifying a new building.
FOUR POINT INSPECTION
A “Four Point Inspection” focuses only on the four major components in a home: Roof, HVAC (Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning) Electrical wiring and panels. Plumbing connections and fixtures. Roof. The reason for insurance companies asking for this inspection is for homes that are typically over 25 years old. They want to know these four areas are in good condition, have live remaining and no deficiencies exist to give you a home policy.
THERMAL IMAGING
Thermal imaging is the use of a thermal camera to capture images which show differences in surface temperatures. These differences are shown by different colors on a color scale. Any small differences in temperature can be the indication of moisture. It’s a good idea to check areas such as walls or ceilings near plumbing fixtures and areas around appliances.
A professional home inspector, equipped with a thermal imaging camera and properly trained and certified in its use, can find problems with a house that a normal home inspectors cannot. These problems include:
– Water intrusion through the houses exterior covering, whether the house has brick, stone, stucco or siding.
– Improperly installed or settled insulation.
– Water leaks around windows and doors.
– Plumbing leaks inside the house, including leaking pipes, improperly seated toilets, leaky shower pans and bathtubs and water pipe condensation.
– Improperly insulated HVAC ducting that have not been properly sealed or that cause condensation dripping in attics and crawlspaces.
– Improperly installed or insufficient insulation in ceilings and walls.
– Leaking roofs, skylights, roof vent piping and roof vents.
ROOF CERTIFICATION
A roof certification is a statement of opinion by a licensed roofer who deems the roof has a life expectancy of up to 3 years and should be FHA compliant. First, a thorough roof inspection is carried out to assess the rooftop’s current condition and uncover any deficiencies.
Blower Door Testing
RiteStart Home Inspections is also certified to conduct blower door test. A blower door is a machine used to measure the air tightness of home/building. It can also be used to measure airflow between building zones, to test ductwork air tightness and to help physically locate air leakage sites in the building envelope. This is a requirement for all homes build 2017 and after.